Washing macine and control method thereof

Abstract

A washing machine is disclosed. One or more processors, when instructions are individually or collectively executed, cause a washing machine to: in a normal mode, perform washing by performing a first number of times of stirring cycles during a first washing section, and performing a laundry untangling cycle during a second washing section; and in an energy saving mode, perform washing by performing a second number of times of stirring cycles during the first washing section, in which the second number of times is different from the first number of times, and performing a soaking cycle during at least a part of the second washing section.

Description

Washing device and control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing device and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] Recently, technology regarding laundry devices that provide various washing modes to save energy is being developed. In particular, technology for washing modes designed to reduce energy consumption by changing washing cycles or washing times is advancing.

[0003] Generally, when a washing machine performs a wash in energy-saving mode, it can identify the total power consumption in that mode. However, there was a problem in that when calculating the total power consumption in normal mode (not energy-saving mode) using existing calculation methods, there was a significant error compared to the actual measured value.

[0004] A washing device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes one or more processors including a memory for storing instructions and a processing circuitry.

[0005] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively, the washing device performs washing by performing a first stirring stroke during a first washing section and a fluffing stroke during a second washing section when a normal mode is selected, and performs washing by performing a second stirring stroke different from the first stroke during the first washing section and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section when an energy saving mode is selected.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies the power consumption per unit time and the total power consumption of each washing section in the energy saving mode based on washing time information per washing section corresponding to the energy saving mode and the power consumption per washing section, and identifies the total power consumption in the general mode based on washing time information per washing section in the general mode and the power consumption per unit time of each washing section.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, the washing device further includes a communication circuit, and when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and the total power consumption in the normal mode, and transmits information corresponding to the identified energy saving rate to a user terminal through the communication circuit.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine identifies an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the general mode relative to the value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption in the energy saving mode from the total power consumption in the general mode.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, the energy saving mode further includes a third washing section for performing the popping action, and when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies the power consumption corresponding to the second washing section in the normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section in the energy saving mode.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies a first power consumption corresponding to the first washing section in the general mode, a second power consumption corresponding to the second washing section, and a third power consumption corresponding to at least a portion of the second washing section in the energy saving mode, and identifies the total power consumption in the general mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode, the first power consumption, the second power consumption, and the third power consumption.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies the total power consumption in the general mode by subtracting the third power consumption from the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and adding the first power consumption and the second power consumption.

[0012] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device identifies the first power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the first washing section identified in the energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the first washing section in the normal mode, and identifies the second power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section identified in the energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the second washing section in the normal mode.

[0013] According to one or more embodiments, when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing device performs the stirring step and the soaking step alternately in the energy saving mode, and then performs the popping step.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments, in the energy saving mode, at least one of the washing time corresponding to the stirring stroke, the washing time corresponding to the soaking stroke, and the order of the stirring stroke and the soaking stroke is determined based on attribute information of the washing device.

[0015] A control method for a washing device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes an operation of performing a washing operation by performing a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section in a normal mode and performing a fluffing stroke during a second washing section, and an operation of performing a washing operation by performing a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during the first washing section in an energy saving mode and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section.

[0016] A non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that cause a washing device to perform an operation when executed by a processor of a washing device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the operation comprises, when a general mode is selected according to a first user command, performing a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section and performing a fluffing stroke during a second washing section to perform washing, and when an energy-saving mode is selected according to a second user command, performing a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during the first washing section and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

[0017] The above and other aspect features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description, which is referenced together with the accompanying drawings.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the detailed configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the general mode and energy saving mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIGS. 5A and 5B are drawings for explaining the process of identifying power consumption in an energy-saving mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0023] FIGS. 6a and 6b are drawings for explaining the process of identifying the power consumption per unit time of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the process of identifying the total power consumption in the general mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the process of inferring the total power consumption in the general mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a method for identifying the energy saving rate of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the process of providing information corresponding to the energy saving rate of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the overall operation method of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0030] The terms used in the various embodiments of this Disclosure have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions within the Disclosure; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been selected arbitrarily, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in the relevant explanatory section of the Disclosure. Therefore, terms used in this Disclosure should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the content throughout the Disclosure.

[0031] In the present disclosure, expressions such as “have,” “may have,” “include,” or “may include” indicate the presence of such features (e.g., numerical values, functions, actions, or components such as parts) and do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0032] The expression "at least one of A or / and B" should be understood as representing either "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0033] Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" used in this disclosure may modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit said components.

[0034] Where it is stated that a component (e.g., Component 1) is "(operatively or communicatively) coupled with / to" or "connected to" another component (e.g., Component 2), it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to the other component or connected through the other component (e.g., Component 3).

[0035] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this disclosure, terms such as “comprising” or “consisting of” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0036] In the present disclosure, a “module” or “part” performs at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, a plurality of “modules” or a plurality of “parts” may be integrated into at least one module and implemented in at least one processor (not shown), except for a “module” or “part” that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0037] In the present disclosure, the term "user" may refer to a person using a laundry device or a device used by such person.

[0038] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0040] According to one embodiment, when an energy saving mode is selected by a user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing using a washing course corresponding to the energy saving mode. Here, the washing device (100) is a device for washing clothes and fabrics in a home or commercial space and can be implemented as various devices such as a washing machine, a dryer, a drum washing machine, an automatic washing machine, a dry washing machine, a sneaker washing machine, and an ultrasonic washing machine, but is not limited thereto.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can perform washing in a washing course corresponding to an energy saving mode through washing processes including a stirring process, a soaking process, and a fluffing process.

[0042] According to one example, the energy saving mode may be a washing mode designed to reduce overall power consumption compared to a normal mode. The energy saving mode can reduce overall power consumption by reducing water consumption and power consumption. The energy saving mode is not limited thereto and may be referred to as an eco mode, a saving mode, a low-energy mode, or an energy saving mode, but in this disclosure, it will be collectively referred to as an energy saving mode.

[0043] The agitation stroke may be a stroke that operates a pulsator located in or inside the washing tub to mix laundry, water, and detergent. The agitation stroke may be a stroke that washes laundry inside the washing tub by rotating a drive motor connected to the pulsator or by rotating the washing tub.

[0044] The soaking cycle may be a process of soaking laundry in water for a certain period of time. The soaking cycle can perform only the soaking action without driving the washing tub or pulsator. The soaking cycle may involve slightly rotating the washing tub left and right while soaking the laundry. Since the soaking cycle does not include the operation of rotating the washing tub or pulsator, it may have the lowest power consumption compared to other cycles.

[0045] The fluffing cycle may be a cycle that slowly rotates the washing tub or pulsator to prevent and / or reduce tangling between laundry items. Since the fluffing cycle does not involve the action of rotating the washing tub or pulsator strongly or quickly compared to the agitation cycle, it may consume less power than the power consumed by the agitation cycle.

[0046] The stirring stroke, soaking stroke, and popping stroke are not limited thereto and may be referred to in various ways; however, in this disclosure, they will be collectively referred to as the stirring stroke, soaking stroke, and popping stroke.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can identify the total power consumption consumed during the washing process when washing is performed in an energy-saving mode. The electronic device (100) can identify the total power consumption corresponding to a normal mode based on the total power consumption corresponding to the energy-saving mode.

[0048] The general mode may be a washing mode that includes a preset washing course. The general mode may include only the stirring and foaming courses. When the washing device (100) operates with a washing course corresponding to the general mode, the total power consumption may be greater compared to the energy saving mode. The general mode is not limited to this and can, of course, be referred to as a normal mode.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1, when a normal mode (10) is selected according to a first user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the normal mode (10). When an energy saving mode (20) is selected according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the energy saving mode (20).

[0050] According to one example, the first user command and the second user command may be user commands received through an input interface (160) or a user terminal. For example, the washing device (100) may receive user input corresponding to the first user command or the second user command from a user through the input interface (160) (e.g., see FIG. 3). For example, the washing device (100) may receive the first user command or the second user command corresponding to the user input through a user terminal.

[0051] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, various embodiments will be described for identifying the total power consumption corresponding to the normal mode and calculating the energy saving rate when the washing device (100) performs washing in an energy saving mode.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0053] According to FIG. 2, the washing device (100) includes a memory (110) and one or more processors (120) (e.g., one or more processors including a processing circuit). However, it is not limited thereto, and the washing device (100) may be implemented with some components excluded or with other components included.

[0054] The memory (110) can store at least one instruction, data, program, etc. required for the operation of the washing device (100). For example, the memory (110) can store contour highlighting processing information and location information corresponding to a selected image.

[0055] Depending on the purpose of data storage, the memory (110) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the washing device (100) or in the form of a memory that is detachable from the washing device (100). For example, data for operating the washing device (100) may be stored in a memory embedded in the washing device (100), and data for the expansion function of the washing device (100) may be stored in a memory that is detachable from the washing device (100).

[0056] In the case of memory embedded in the washing device (100), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD).

[0057] The memory (110) may be implemented as a single memory that stores data generated in various operations according to the present disclosure, but is not limited thereto, and the memory (120) may be implemented to include a plurality of memories that each store different types of data or each store data generated in different stages.

[0058] One or more processors (120) may include various processing circuits and may control the overall operation of the washing device (100). For example, one or more processors (120) may be connected to each component of the washing device (100) to control the overall operation of the washing device (100). For example, one or more processors (120) may be electrically connected to the memory (110) to control the overall operation of the washing device (100). One or more processors (120) may include various processing circuits and may include one or more processors.

[0059] One or more processors (120) can perform the operation of a washing device (100) according to various embodiments by executing one or more instructions stored in memory (110).

[0060] One or more processors (120) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), MIC (Many Integrated Core), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), NPU (Neural Processing Unit), hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator. One or more processors (130) may control one or any combination of other components of a washing machine and may perform operations or data processing related to communication. One or more processors (120) may execute one or more programs or instructions stored in memory. For example, one or more processors may perform a method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory. Accordingly, one or more processors (120) (e.g., at least one processor) may include various processing circuits and / or a plurality of processors. For example, the term “processor” as used in this specification and claims may include various processing circuits comprising at least one processor, and at least one of the at least one processor may be configured to perform the various functions described in this specification in a distributed manner, individually and / or collectively. Where in this specification a “processor,” “at least one processor,” or “one or more processors” is described as being configured to perform multiple functions, this includes not only cases where one processor performs some of the multiple functions and another processor performs the remaining functions, but also cases where a single processor performs all of the multiple functions. Additionally, at least one processor may include a combination of multiple processors operating in a distributed manner to perform various functions.At least one processor can achieve or perform various functions by executing program instructions.

[0061] When a method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by a single processor or by a plurality of processors. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to one or more embodiments, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by a second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence dedicated processor).

[0062] One or more processors (120) may be implemented as a single-core processor including one core, or as one or more multicore processors including multiple cores (e.g., homogeneous multicore or heterogeneous multicore). When one or more processors (130) are implemented as multicore processors, each of the multiple cores included in the multicore processor may include internal processor memory such as cache memory or on-chip memory, and a common cache shared by multiple cores may be included in the multicore processor. Each of the multiple cores included in the multicore processor (or some of the multiple cores) may independently read and execute program instructions for implementing a method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, or all (or some) of the multiple cores may be linked to read and execute program instructions for implementing a method according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] When a method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one of the plurality of cores included in a multi-core processor, or may be performed by a plurality of cores. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to one or more embodiments, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first core included in a multi-core processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first core included in a multi-core processor and the third operation may be performed by a second core included in a multi-core processor.

[0064] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, a processor may refer to a system-on-chip (SoC) in which one or more processors and other electronic components are integrated, a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, or a core included in a single-core processor or a multi-core processor, wherein the core may be implemented as a CPU, GPU, APU, MIC, DSP, NPU, hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For convenience of explanation, one or more processors (120) will be referred to as processors (120) below.

[0065] According to one embodiment, when a normal mode is selected according to a first user command, the processor (120) can perform a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section and perform a foaming stroke during a second washing section to perform washing.

[0066] The first washing section may be a washing section that performs an agitation process. The second washing section may be a washing section that performs a fluffing process. The first washing section and the second washing section may be configured to be arranged alternately. For example, the processor (120) may perform a fluffing process corresponding to the second washing section after an agitation process corresponding to the first washing section, and then perform an agitation process corresponding to the first washing section again.

[0067] According to one embodiment, when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command, the processor (120) can perform a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during a first washing section and perform a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

[0068] For example, if the number of swelling operations included in the second washing section is 4, the processor (120) may perform a soaking operation in 2 sections of the second washing section and not perform any operations in the remaining 2 sections.

[0069] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the detailed configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0070] According to FIG. 3, the washing device (100) includes a memory (110), one or more processors (120) (e.g., one or more processors including a processing circuit), a communication circuit (130), a display (140), a sensor (150), an input interface (160), a drive motor (170), a drainage device (180) (e.g., a drainage device including a drain pipe), and a water supply device (190) (e.g., a water supply device including a water pipe). A detailed description of the configurations shown in FIG. 3 that overlap with the configurations shown in FIG. 2 will be omitted.

[0071] The communication circuit (130) may include wired or wireless input / output interfaces (or input / output terminals) according to various standards. The communication circuit (110) may be configured to communicate with various types of external devices according to various types of communication methods. The communication circuit (130) may include a wireless communication module or a wired communication module. Here, each communication module may be implemented in the form of at least one hardware chip.

[0072] The communication circuit (130) may include various interfaces such as HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), USB (Universal Serial Bus), DP (Display Port), Thunderbolt, VGA (Video Graphics Array) port, RGB port, D-SUB (D-subminiature), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), Bluetooth, Zigbee, wired / wireless LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), Ethernet, IEEE 1394, AES / EBU (Audio Engineering Society / European Broadcasting Union), Optical, Coaxial, etc.

[0073] The display (140) is configured to display information corresponding to a normal mode and an energy saving mode. The display (140) may be implemented as a display including a self-emissive element or as a display including a non-emissive element and a backlight. For example, it may be implemented as various types of displays such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display, an LED (Light Emitting Diodes), a micro LED, a Mini LED, a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), a QD (Quantum dot) display, a QLED (Quantum dot light-emitting diodes), etc. The display (110) may also include a driving circuit, a backlight unit, etc., which may be implemented in the form of an a-si TFT, an LTPS (low temperature poly silicon) TFT, an OTFT (organic TFT), etc.

[0074] The sensor (150) may be configured to detect the weight of laundry contained in the washing tub. For example, the sensor (150) may be a weight sensor. The sensor (150) may be attached to the washing tub to measure the weight of the laundry present in the washing tub. However, the method of measuring the weight of the laundry is not limited to using a weight sensor and may also use a Hall sensor.

[0075] The input / output interface (160) may include various circuits and may operate as any one of the following interfaces: HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), USB (Universal Serial Bus), DP (Display Port), Thunderbolt, VGA (Video Graphics Array) port, RGB port, D-SUB (D-subminiature), and DVI (Digital Visual Interface).

[0076] The input / output interface (160) can input and output at least one of audio and video signals. Depending on the implementation example, the input / output interface (160) may include separate ports for inputting and outputting only audio signals and for inputting and outputting only video signals, or it may be implemented as a single port for inputting and outputting both audio and video signals.

[0077] The input / output interface (160) can be connected to the communication circuit (130). The input / output interface (190) can transmit information received from an external device to the communication circuit or transmit information received through the communication interface to the external device.

[0078] The drive motor (170) receives power to generate driving force and can transmit the generated driving force to the washing tub and pulsator.

[0079] The washing device (100) may include a drainage device (180) configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device (180) may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0080] The washing device (100) may include a water supply device (190) configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device (190) may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or a tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0081] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0082] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the general mode and energy saving mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0083] According to one embodiment, when a normal mode is selected according to a first user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing by performing a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section and a fluffing stroke during a second washing section. The washing device (100) can perform stirring strokes during the first washing section and fluffing strokes during the second washing section based on a preset time.

[0084] According to one embodiment, when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can perform a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during a first washing section and perform a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the energy saving mode may further include a third washing section that performs a popping action.

[0086] According to one example, the washing device (100) can perform an agitation process during the first washing period, a soaking process during the second washing period, and a foaming process during the third washing period based on a preset time, just as when operating in normal mode.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can alternately perform a stirring stroke and a soaking stroke in an energy-saving mode, and then perform a foaming stroke.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, the washing device (100) can perform a pre-set washing process in the step 1 to step 8 sections of the general mode (440). For example, the washing device (100) can perform an agitation process in the step 1 washing section and a fluffing process in the last step 9 washing section. The washing device (100) can perform an agitation process in the even-numbered step sections, step 2, step 4, step 6, and step 8, and perform a fluffing process in the odd-numbered step sections, step 3 (420-1), step 5 (430-1), and step 7.

[0089] The washing device (100) can perform a pre-set washing process in the step 1 to step 8 sections of the energy saving mode (410). For example, the washing device (100) can perform an agitation process in the step 1 washing section and a fluffing process in the last step 9 washing section. The washing device (100) can perform an agitation process in the even-numbered step sections, such as step 2, step 4, step 6, and step 8, just like in the normal mode. However, the washing device (100) can set the agitation washing time in step 2, step 6, and step 8 to '0'.

[0090] The washing device (100) can perform a soaking process in the odd-numbered step sections, step 3 (420-2) and step 5 (430-2), unlike the normal mode steps 3 (420-1) and step 5 (430-1). The washing device (100) can set the popping process time in step 7 to '0'.

[0091] The washing cycle and washing time for each washing section of the general mode (440) and energy saving mode (410) illustrated in FIG. 4 may be set during the manufacturing stage of the washing device (100) or may be set differently depending on user input. However, the washing cycle and washing time for each washing section are not limited to this and may be set to different washing cycles and different washing times.

[0092] According to one example, the washing device (100) can perform washing corresponding to a normal mode (440) and an energy saving mode (410) based on the washing course shown in FIG. 4.

[0093] According to one embodiment, in an energy saving mode, at least one of the washing time corresponding to the stirring stroke, the washing time corresponding to the soaking stroke, and the sequence of the stirring stroke and the soaking stroke may be determined based on attribute information of the washing device (100). The attribute information may include information on at least one of the size of the washing device (100), the volume of laundry that can be accommodated, and water level information.

[0094] For example, the larger the size of the washing device (100), the longer the washing time corresponding to the first washing section in the energy saving mode may be compared to a washing device of a smaller size.

[0095] According to one embodiment, in a normal mode, at least one of the washing time corresponding to the stirring stroke, the washing time corresponding to the fluffing stroke, and the sequence of the stirring stroke and the fluffing stroke can be determined based on attribute information of the washing device (100).

[0096] FIGS. 5A and 5B are drawings for explaining the process of identifying power consumption in an energy-saving mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption of each washing section and the total power consumption in the energy saving mode based on washing time information for each washing section corresponding to the energy saving mode and the power consumption amount for each washing section.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5a, the washing device (100) can identify washing time information (510) for each washing section corresponding to an energy saving mode (410). For example, the washing device (100) can obtain washing time information for each washing section from a server. For example, the washing device (100) can obtain washing time information for each washing section based on washing time information (510) for each washing section corresponding to an energy saving mode (410) stored in memory (110).

[0099] For example, the washing device (100) can identify the washing time corresponding to the stirring step of step 1 as 3 minutes, the washing time corresponding to the soaking step of step 3 as 10 minutes, and the washing time corresponding to the fluffing step of step 9 as 1 minute.

[0100] According to one example, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption (520) for each washing section through the sensor (150). For example, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption corresponding to the stirring step of step 1 as 9Wh, the power consumption corresponding to the soaking step of step 3 as 0.3Wh, and the power consumption corresponding to the foaming step of step 9 as 0.5Wh.

[0101] According to one example, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption (530) corresponding to the energy saving mode (410) by summing up all power consumption (520) for each washing section. For example, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption (530) corresponding to the energy saving mode (410) as 22.1Wh.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 5b, an energy-saving mode washing course (540) is illustrated that includes washing strokes and washing times different from the washing strokes and washing times for each washing section illustrated in FIG. 5a.

[0103] According to one example, the washing device (100) can perform the soaking process with a washing time corresponding to the step 3 soaking process that is increased from the washing time shown in FIG. 5a. For example, the washing device (100) can perform the soaking process (550) by increasing the washing time corresponding to the step 3 soaking process from 10 minutes to 20 minutes.

[0104] In this case, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption corresponding to the step 3 soaking process through the sensor (150). The washing device (100) can identify a power consumption of 0.6Wh for the step 3 soaking process with a washing time of 20 minutes.

[0105] The washing device (100) can operate by increasing the washing time corresponding to the step 3 soaking process from 10 minutes to 20 minutes. Although the washing time corresponding to the step 3 soaking process in FIG. 5b is shown as increased compared to the washing time shown in FIG. 5a, it is not limited thereto, and the washing time (e.g., 20 minutes) is not limited thereto.

[0106] According to one example, the washing device (100) may perform a fluffing process (560) instead of a soaking process in step 5. As illustrated in FIG. 5a, the washing device (100) performed a soaking process in step 3 and step 5, but as illustrated in FIG. 5b, the washing device (100) may perform a soaking process in step 3 and a fluffing process in step 5.

[0107] In this case, the washing device (100) can identify the washing time as 0 minutes and the power consumption as 0Wh for the step 5 fluffing process.

[0108] According to one example, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption (570) corresponding to the energy saving mode by summing up the power consumption for each washing section. For example, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption (570) corresponding to the energy saving mode as 22.1Wh.

[0109] According to one example, the washing device (100) can perform washing by setting the type of washing process (e.g., stirring process, fluffing process, soaking process) and washing time differently in the step 3 to step 9 sections.

[0110] FIGS. 6a and 6b are drawings for explaining the process of identifying the power consumption per unit time of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption per unit time of each washing section in an energy saving mode. The washing device (100) can identify the power consumption per unit time based on the washing time and power consumption per washing section in an energy saving mode.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 6a, the washing device (100) can identify a power consumption (611) of 3Wh per unit time (e.g., 1 minute) based on the washing time (3 minutes) and power consumption (9Wh) corresponding to the stirring stroke (610) of step 1.

[0113] The washing device (100) can identify a power consumption (621) of 0.03Wh per unit time based on the washing time (10 minutes) and power consumption (0.3Wh) corresponding to the soaking process (620) of step 3.

[0114] The washing device (100) can identify a power consumption (631) of 0.5Wh per unit time based on the washing time (1 minute) and power consumption (0.5Wh) corresponding to the foaming process (630) of the step 9 section.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can infer the total power consumption corresponding to the normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time for each washing section (611, 621, 631) corresponding to the energy saving mode.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 6b, this is a diagram illustrating the process of identifying the power consumption per unit time of an energy saving mode (640) corresponding to the washing course (540) of FIG. 5b. The washing device (100) can identify the power consumption corresponding to the step 3 soaking process (650) as 0.6Wh by increasing the washing time of the step 3 soaking process (650) to 20 minutes.

[0117] The washing device (100) can identify a power consumption (651) of 0.03Wh per unit time based on the washing time and power consumption corresponding to the step 3 soaking process (650).

[0118] The washing device (100) can identify the washing time of the step 5 fluffing process (660) as 0 minutes and the power consumption as 0Wh.

[0119] According to one example, if the washing time per washing section is changed, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption based on the changed washing time. The washing device can identify the power consumption per unit time based on the changed washing time and the identified power consumption.

[0120] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the process of identifying the total power consumption in the general mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption in normal mode based on washing time information for each washing section in normal mode and the power consumption per unit time of each washing section in energy saving mode.

[0122] According to one example, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption corresponding to the first washing section in normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the first washing section in energy saving mode.

[0123] According to one example, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption corresponding to the second washing section in normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section in energy saving mode.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify a first power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the first washing section identified in energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the first washing section in normal mode.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify a second power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section identified in the energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the second washing section in the normal mode.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 7, the washing device (100) can identify washing time information (710) for each washing section in normal mode. The washing device (100) can identify power consumption (720) for each washing section in normal mode.

[0127] The washing device (100) can identify the power consumption (9Wh) for step 1 in normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time (611) corresponding to the stirring stroke in energy saving mode and the washing time (3 minutes) corresponding to the stirring stroke in normal mode.

[0128] The washing device (100) can identify the power consumption (0.5Wh) for step 3 in normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time (631) corresponding to the popping action in energy saving mode and the washing time (1 minute) corresponding to the popping action in normal mode.

[0129] The washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption (730) of 45.25Wh in normal mode by identifying the power consumption for the first washing section corresponding to the stirring stroke and the power consumption for the second washing section corresponding to the foaming stroke.

[0130] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the process of inferring the total power consumption in the general mode of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify a first power consumption corresponding to a first washing section in normal mode, a second power consumption corresponding to a second washing section, and a third power consumption corresponding to at least a portion of the second washing section in energy saving mode.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption in the general mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode, the first power consumption corresponding to the first washing section in the general mode, the second power consumption corresponding to the second washing section in the general mode, and the third power consumption corresponding to at least some section of the second washing section in the energy saving mode.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the total power consumption in normal mode by subtracting a third power consumption from the total power consumption in energy saving mode and adding the first power consumption and the second power consumption.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 8, the washing device (100) can identify a total power consumption (810) of 22.1Wh in energy saving mode. The washing device (100) can identify a third power consumption (820) of 0.6Wh (power consumption in step 3, step 5 0.3Wh*2) of a soaking step corresponding to at least some sections of the second washing section in energy saving mode.

[0135] The washing device (100) can identify a first power consumption (830) corresponding to a first washing section of the stirring stroke in normal mode. The washing device (100) can identify 22.5Wh, which is the result of multiplying the washing time (7.5 minutes) corresponding to step 2, step 6, and step 8 of the first washing section in normal mode by the unit time power consumption (611) (3Wh) of the first washing section, as the power consumption (830) corresponding to the first washing section.

[0136] The washing device (100) can identify a second power consumption (840) corresponding to the second washing section of the flaking process in normal mode. The washing device (100) can identify 1.25Wh, which is the result of multiplying the washing time (2.5 minutes) corresponding to step 3, step 5, and step 7 of the second washing section in normal mode and the unit time power consumption (631) (0.5Wh) of the third washing section, as the power consumption (840) corresponding to the second washing section.

[0137] The washing device (100) can infer the total power consumption (850) (45.25Wh) in normal mode by subtracting the third power consumption (820) (0.6Wh) from the total power consumption (810) (22.1Wh) in energy saving mode and adding the first power consumption (830) (22.5Wh) and the second power consumption (840) (1.25Wh).

[0138] Of course, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption for each washing section in normal mode and infer the total power consumption (850).

[0139] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a method for identifying the energy saving rate of a washing machine according to one or more embodiments.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify the energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and the total power consumption in the normal mode.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can identify an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the general mode compared to the value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption in the energy saving mode from the total power consumption in the general mode.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 9, the washing machine (100) can identify a value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption (930) in energy-saving mode from the total power consumption (920) in normal mode. For example, the washing machine (100) can identify 23.15Wh by subtracting 22.1Wh from 45.25Wh.

[0143] The washing machine (100) can identify 0.512, which is the value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption (950) in energy-saving mode from the total power consumption (920) in normal mode and dividing it by the total power consumption (940) in normal mode.

[0144] The washing machine (100) can identify 51.2%, which is 0.512 multiplied by 100, as the energy saving rate (910).

[0145] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the process of providing information corresponding to the energy saving rate of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the washing device (100) can transmit information corresponding to the energy saving rate to a user terminal through a communication circuit (130).

[0147] Referring to FIG. 10, when an energy saving mode is selected (1010) according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can transmit information (1020) corresponding to the energy saving rate to a user terminal.

[0148] For example, the washing device (100) may provide information (1020) corresponding to the energy saving rate, including text such as “Washing completed. Energy saved by 5Wh (14%) in energy saving mode,” to the user through a user terminal. The information (1020) corresponding to the energy saving rate is not limited to this and may, of course, be provided including different text and images.

[0149] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the overall operation method of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 11, in operation 1110, when a washing device (100) selects a washing mode for at least one of a normal mode or an energy-saving mode according to a user command, it can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the selected mode.

[0151] In operation 1120, the washing device (100) can receive a second user command corresponding to an energy saving mode.

[0152] In operation 1130, when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the energy saving mode.

[0153] In operation 1140, the washing device (100) can identify the power consumption for each washing section and the total power consumption in energy saving mode.

[0154] In operation 1150, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to an energy saving mode and end the washing.

[0155] In operation 1160, the washing device (100) can infer the total power consumption in normal mode based on the power consumption for each washing section corresponding to the energy saving mode and the total power consumption.

[0156] In operation 1170, the washing device (100) can transmit information corresponding to the energy saving rate to a user terminal.

[0157] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 12, in operation 1210, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the normal mode when a normal mode is selected according to the first user command.

[0159] In operation 1220, when a normal mode is selected according to a first user command, the washing device (100) can perform a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section and perform a fluffing stroke during a second washing section to perform washing.

[0160] In operation 1230, when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can perform washing with a washing course corresponding to the energy saving mode.

[0161] In operation 1240, when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command, the washing device (100) can perform a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during the first washing section and perform a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

[0162] The control method described in FIG. 12 can be performed by a washing device (100) having the configuration of FIG. 2 described above, but is not necessarily limited thereto and can be performed by an electronic device having various configurations.

[0163] The various embodiments described above may be implemented individually, or the various embodiments may be combined with one another, either wholly or partially, to be implemented together in a single device.

[0164] According to the various embodiments described above, the washing device (100) can perform washing in an energy-saving mode and identify information corresponding to the energy saving rate when performing washing in an energy-saving mode compared to when performing washing in a normal mode.

[0165] The various embodiments described above may be applied to a product individually, but at least some of their contents may be implemented together in combination with the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0166] The various embodiments described above may be implemented as software containing instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a computer). The machine may include an electronic device (e.g., a washing machine (100)) according to the disclosed embodiments, which is a device capable of calling instructions stored from the storage medium and operating according to the called instructions. When instructions are executed by a processor, the processor may perform a function corresponding to the instructions directly or by using other components under the control of the processor. Instructions may include code generated or executed by a compiler or an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means that the storage medium does not contain a signal and is tangible, and does not distinguish whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium.

[0167] In addition, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method according to the various embodiments described above may be provided by being included in a computer program product.

[0168] For example, a non-transient readable storage medium or computer program product may be provided that stores computer instructions to perform washing by performing a first number of stirring strokes during a first washing section and a fluffing stroke during a second washing section when a normal mode is selected according to a first user command, and to perform washing by performing a second number of stirring strokes different from the first number during a first washing section and a soaking stroke during at least a portion of a second washing section when an energy saving mode is selected according to a second user command.

[0169] Computer program products may be distributed in the form of device-readable storage media (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or online through an application store (e.g., Play Store™). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0170] Computer instructions or programs for performing the control method of a washing device, etc., according to the various embodiments described above may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. When computer instructions stored on such a non-transitory computer-readable medium are executed by a processor of a specific device, they cause the specific device to perform a processing operation in the device according to the various embodiments described above. Specific examples of a non-transitory computer-readable medium may include CDs, DVDs, hard disks, Blu-ray discs, USBs, memory cards, ROMs, etc.

[0171] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various embodiments, the embodiments are illustrative and are not limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications in form and detail are possible with respect to the various embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment described herein may be used in combination with other embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. In a washing device, Memory for storing instructions; and One or more processors including processing circuitry; and The above one or more processors, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively, the washing device, In normal mode, a first stirring stroke is performed during the first washing section, and a fluffing stroke is performed during the second washing section to perform washing. A washing device that performs washing by performing a second stirring stroke different from the first stroke during the first washing section in an energy saving mode, and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, Based on washing time information for each washing section corresponding to the energy saving mode and power consumption for each washing section, the power consumption per unit time and the total power consumption of each washing section in the energy saving mode are identified. A washing device that identifies the total power consumption in the general mode based on washing time information for each washing section in the general mode and the power consumption per unit time of each washing section.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above washing device is, Including a communication circuit; further When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, Based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and the total power consumption in the general mode, the energy saving rate in the energy saving mode is identified, and A laundry device that transmits information corresponding to the identified energy saving rate to a user terminal through the communication circuit.

4. In Paragraph 3, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, A washing device that identifies an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the general mode relative to the value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption in the energy saving mode from the total power consumption in the general mode.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above energy saving mode is, It further includes a third washing section that performs the above-mentioned popping process, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, A washing device that identifies the power consumption corresponding to the second washing section in the normal mode based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section in the energy saving mode.

6. In Paragraph 5, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, Identifying a first power consumption corresponding to the first washing section in the above general mode, a second power consumption corresponding to the above second washing section, and a third power consumption corresponding to at least a portion of the above second washing section in the above energy saving mode, A washing device that identifies the total power consumption in the general mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode, the first power consumption, the second power consumption, and the third power consumption.

7. In Paragraph 6, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, A washing device that identifies the total power consumption in the general mode by subtracting the third power consumption from the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and adding the first power consumption and the second power consumption.

8. In Paragraph 7, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, Identifying the first power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the first washing section identified in the energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the first washing section in the normal mode, A washing device that identifies the second power consumption based on the power consumption per unit time corresponding to the third washing section identified in the energy saving mode and the washing time corresponding to the second washing section in the normal mode.

9. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the washing machine, A washing device that performs the stirring stroke and the soaking stroke alternately in the above energy saving mode, and then performs the above foaming stroke.

10. In Paragraph 1, A washing device in which at least one of the washing time corresponding to the stirring stroke in the above energy saving mode, the washing time corresponding to the soaking stroke, and the sequence of the stirring stroke and the soaking stroke is determined based on attribute information of the washing device.

11. In a method for controlling a washing machine, The operation of performing a first stirring stroke during a first washing section in a normal mode and performing a fluffing stroke during a second washing section to perform washing; and A control method comprising: performing a second stirring stroke different from the first stroke during the first washing section in an energy saving mode, and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

12. In Paragraph 11, An operation to identify the power consumption per unit time and the total power consumption of each washing section in the energy saving mode based on washing time information for each washing section corresponding to the energy saving mode and the power consumption amount for each washing section; and A control method comprising: identifying the total power consumption in the general mode based on washing time information for each washing section in the general mode and the power consumption per unit time of each washing section.

13. In Paragraph 12, An operation to identify an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the energy saving mode and the total power consumption in the general mode; and A control method comprising the operation of transmitting information corresponding to the identified energy saving rate to a user terminal.

14. In Paragraph 13, A control method comprising: identifying an energy saving rate in the energy saving mode based on the total power consumption in the general mode relative to the value obtained by subtracting the total power consumption in the energy saving mode from the total power consumption in the general mode.

15. A non-transient computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions that cause said washing device to perform an operation when executed by a processor of said washing device, wherein said operation is, The operation of performing a first stirring stroke during a first washing section in a normal mode and performing a fluffing stroke during a second washing section to perform washing; and A non-transient computer-readable storage medium comprising: an operation of performing a second stirring stroke different from the first stroke during the first washing section in an energy-saving mode, and performing a soaking stroke during at least a portion of the second washing section to perform washing.

Images